Chewy & Nutritious Date and Walnut Snack Bars Recipe
Looking for a quick, healthy snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying? These Chewy & Nutritious Date and Walnut Snack Bars are the perfect choice! Packed with wholesome ingredients like medjool dates, walnuts, and seeds, these bars are a delicious combination of natural sweetness, healthy fats, and fiber. Whether you need an on-the-go snack or a quick energy boost, these bars are simple to make and full of goodness!
Ingredients for Date and Walnut Snack Bars:
- 1 cup pitted medjool dates
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp flaxseeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions for Chewy & Nutritious Date and Walnut Snack Bars:
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
- Start by placing the 1 cup pitted medjool dates in a food processor. Pulse until the dates break down into a sticky, slightly chunky mixture. If your dates are too dry, you can soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes before processing.
Step 2: Blend the Nuts and Seeds
- Add the 1/2 cup walnuts, 1 tbsp chia seeds, and 1 tbsp flaxseeds to the food processor with the dates. Pulse a few times to chop the walnuts into smaller pieces and combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Oats and Maple Syrup
- Add 1/2 cup oats and 1 tbsp maple syrup to the mixture. Pulse again until everything is well combined. The mixture should stick together and hold its shape when pressed.
Step 4: Press into a Pan
- Line a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish, pressing it down firmly with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer. Press the mixture as tightly as possible to ensure the bars hold together when cut.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
- Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator and cut into bars or squares.
Step 6: Enjoy!
- These Chewy & Nutritious Date and Walnut Snack Bars are now ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Why You’ll Love These Snack Bars
These homemade Date and Walnut Snack Bars are not only easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Medjool dates provide natural sweetness and energy, while walnuts and seeds deliver healthy fats and fiber. The addition of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness without any refined sugar. These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or a midday energy boost.
Tips for Success
- Customize the mix-ins: Feel free to swap out the walnuts for other nuts, like almonds or cashews, or add some dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- Make them vegan: These bars are already vegan, but make sure to use pure maple syrup for a plant-based sweetener.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a little extra warmth in flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of dates?
While medjool dates are preferred for their soft and sticky texture, you can use deglet noor dates or any other soft dates. Just make sure they are pitted and moist enough to blend well.
Can I make these bars without a food processor?
Yes! You can finely chop the dates and walnuts by hand and then mix everything in a bowl. You may need to use your hands to press everything together since it won’t be as smooth as using a food processor.
How long do these bars last?
These Date and Walnut Snack Bars will stay fresh for about 1 week in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
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